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Iran Visa for Zambia Citizens 2026

Visa on Arrival

Zambian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at major Iranian airports, though pre-arranging an authorization code online is strongly recommended.

Guide last updated September 27, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry
  • Two passport-size photos (recent, white background) for the arrival visa desk
  • Proof of travel medical insurance valid in Iran (often purchasable at the airport if not arranged beforehand)
  • Hotel booking or invitation letter showing accommodation
  • Return or onward flight ticket
  • A pre-approved authorization code from e_visa.mfa.ir, which is highly recommended to speed up the arrival process
  • No biometrics required in advance; fingerprints/photo may be taken at the airport

Visa types

  • Tourist visa on arrival: single entry, valid for a stay of up to 30 days, extendable once for another 15-30 days, fee typically in the range of USD 75-85 payable in euros or another accepted hard currency
  • e-Visa (pre-approved, collected on arrival): same validity as the visa on arrival but processed faster at the airport counter since authorization is already approved
  • Business visa: requires an invitation from an Iranian company or organization, arranged in advance rather than on arrival

Visa on arrival

  • Available at Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport and a limited number of other entry points - not available at most land borders
  • Steps: proceed to the visa-on-arrival counter after landing, submit your passport, photos, insurance proof, and payment, and complete a short application form
  • Fees must usually be paid in euros or US dollars in cash, since Iranian banks are cut off from most international card networks - carry the exact amount in small denominations
  • Processing at the airport typically takes 30-90 minutes depending on queue length
  • Pre-applying online for an authorization code before travel significantly shortens the airport process and reduces the risk of refusal at the border

Fees & processing time

  • Visa on arrival fee: approximately USD 75-85 (or euro equivalent), paid in cash at the airport
  • Online authorization code: typically free or a small service fee of USD 10-20 depending on the service used
  • Total estimated cost: USD 75-100
  • Processing time at the airport: 30-90 minutes with pre-approval; longer and less certain without it
  • No express/priority lane is generally offered beyond having pre-approval

Tips for Zambia travelers

  • Strongly consider applying for the online authorization code in advance, since arriving without one risks delays or, in rare cases, boarding refusal by your airline
  • Carry sufficient euro or US dollar cash, as foreign bank cards do not work in Iran due to international sanctions
  • Confirm your travel insurance before departure, as this is a strict requirement and not always straightforward to buy at the airport
  • Dress and conduct requirements are strictly enforced in Iran, particularly modest dress for women - review these before traveling
  • Check current travel advisories close to your travel date, as entry procedures and fee currency requirements can change with little notice

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.